Choosing a career in social services

Over 139,000 people work in social services in Scotland and there are more than 25,000 early education and child care workers.

What do you want from your career?

Is it a job that is challenging, satisfying, makes a difference and is filled with opportunity? A career in social services can be all of these things and more. It’s work that covers many different areas in our society and involves working with other agencies and professionals.

Social service workers help people to make choices and improve their lives by giving practical help and support to individuals and families in times of crisis. Most people value their independence so staff work closely with other professionals to support vulnerable children and adults – in need or at risk – to remain in their own homes and communities. A social service worker must be able to establish relationships and learn to overcome barriers to communication with people of all ages, backgrounds and with different needs.

There are many different types of jobs in social services, requiring a range of skills. You can choose to qualify as a social worker, to work in social care or to work in early education and child care. For further information about careers please read our booklet:

A Career in Social Services in pdf format